Justice Inyang Edem Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a N1 billion lawsuit filed against former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele, over the economic hardship caused by the 2023 Naira redesign policy.
The case, brought by Abuja-based lawyer Uthman Isa Tochukwu, was struck out on Monday due to the plaintiff’s failure to diligently prosecute the matter.
In his ruling, Justice Ekwo stated he was satisfied that the plaintiff had intentionally abandoned the case, noting his consistent absence from court sessions without legal representation or explanation.
Tochukwu had filed the suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/418/2023, dragging Buhari, the Attorney General of the Federation, the CBN, and two commercial banks before the court.
He alleged that the Naira redesign inflicted multiple hardships on him, claiming violations of his rights to freedom of movement and personal dignity.
The plaintiff, through his lawyer Bala Dakum, argued that the cash scarcity between January and March 2023 restricted his movement and left him unable to access his funds held in the two banks.
He sought N1 billion in damages for the alleged breach of his rights and requested a perpetual injunction preventing the defendants from further restricting access to the old N200, N500, and N1000 notes.
He also demanded a public apology from the defendants, to be published in two major national newspapers.
However, during Monday’s hearing, neither Tochukwu nor his counsel appeared in court or gave any justification for their absence.
Mr. Chikelue Amasiani, representing the third and fourth defendants (Emefiele and the CBN), pointed out the plaintiff’s repeated non-appearance since the case was filed in 2023, arguing it showed a clear lack of commitment.
He urged the court to dismiss the case, suggesting the plaintiff could refile if he chose to pursue it seriously.
Justice Ekwo, agreeing with the argument, subsequently struck out the suit.